Mealer was paralyzed from the waist down in a car accident in 2007. He sustained an injury to his spinal cord and surgeons gave him a 1 percent chance of moving his legs again, with even less of a chance he'd ever walk.

Mealer climbed the stairs to reach the podium Sunday to speak to student-athletes at the Leadership Recognition Dinner in Fremont. Mealer‘s message focused on capitalizing on opportunities, believing in one’s self and optimism.

“I’ve begun to see the impact I can have on a young person’s life and allow them to see some of the things I had in my recovery,” Mealer said. “Always have faith. I’ve had so many moments to turn away from the challenges, but you keep faith in what you believe in and faith in God. Never give in and never give up.”

Mealer walked onto the field for a Michigan game in Ann Arbor on Sept. 4, 2010. He continues to diligently attack his rehabilitation.

“I really enjoyed it,” Genoa’s Kyle Edwards said of Mealer’s message. “It’s cool I watched him walk out on the field on TV. Being a Michigan fan and him working with the staff. It was neat what they did for him and how he overcame 1 percent odds to walk again.”

Mealer said he used his fear for energy in his recovery. He remembers the setbacks in his recovery process but has been steadfast in looking to the next goal in his path.

“You can be empowered by a dream,” he said. “Particularly if you are surrounded by the right people.”

Two male and two female students from each of nine area schools were selected to attend Sunday’s event by administrators when they were juniors. Those recognized for leadership qualities included Tanner Albert, Brandon Campbell, Marquis Crawford and Jonathen Moes (Vanguard-Tech Center), Adam Alexander, Michaela Davidson, Morgan Kemenah and Brandon Tittle (Old Fort), and Ryan Avers, Julia Barbee, Ian Fruchey and Mackenzie Johnson (Woodmore).

“His determination to overcome when all the odds were against him,” Yeckley said of what stood out about Mealer. “Overcoming that is inspirational.”

Mealer is inspired by the fact others are inspired by him.

“The mental challenges ae much more important than the physical ones getting through any obstacle,” Mealer said. “Anything is possible if you believe that. Remember the people who help you get where you are and make sure they know you are grateful.”

Michaels, who had surgery over the summer, is motivated to step into a new role on the basketball team. The Fliers graduated a standout group of seniors that spearheaded a 99-6 record the last four years.

“It motivates me with everything I do in life, not just athletics,” she said of Mealer‘s message. “It motivates me with my surgery to get back fast and be a leader. Never stop -- you put the limits on your success in life.”

The Physical Medicine Department of ProMedica Memorial Hospital recognition program is meant to promote leadership in youth while encouraging and motivating student athletes to serve as role models in their communities.